Poetic Justice
In old China, the Dragon Boat Festival formed an integral part of the Chinese lunar calendar and signalled the onset of summer (although by June in Taiwan, summer has already been upon us for several weeks). The festival commemorates the death of the statesman-poet Chu Yuan of the Warring States Period (about 300 years before the birth of Christ), who, frustrated with his attempts to gain a favorable response from the king for much-needed reforms, threw himself into the Milo River and drowned. His followers jumped into their boats and rushed out to try to save him, and today's Dragon Boat races commemorate this vain attempt.
Another tradition of the season, stemming from this event, is the eating of a delicious rice dumpling called tsung tze. After the poet had thrown himself into the river, the people wanted to preserve his body from being eaten by fish, so they made dumplings of sticky rice which they wrapped in bamboo leaves and threw into the river. Eating tsung tze is a part of the celebrations of every Dragon Boat Festival.
An Ounce of Prevention
The Chinese believe that the onset of summer is a prime time to catch colds, so at this time mothers often make up little sachets containing different spices to help ward off diseases. These colorful little packets, called hsiang pao, are often intricately embroidered and are fashioned in traditional and auspicious shapes. Many come in the shape of animals, and children love to collect them. It is they who will wear them around their necks to prevent catching colds.
In addition to the hsiang pao, sprigs of certain plants are gathered and hung over the doorway of houses on this special day. This is done to ward off evil and sickness throughout the summer months to come.
The Dragon Boat Festival falls on the fifth day of the fifth month on the Chinese lunar calendar, a date which varies from year to year on the Gregorian calendar. This year it will be on Friday, June 2nd, and, as always, will be a national holiday. Dragon boat races, held at many areas around the island, are a colorful spectacle which shouldn't be missed by anyone who wants to learn more about Chinese festivals and folk customs.
The best place to watch the festivities in Taipei is along the banks of the Hsintien River near Chung Cheng Bridge. Thousands gather to watch teams of rowers in their colorfully painted dragon boats as they vie for the title of champion and the honor of taking home the "President's Cup." The racers include workers from different companies, student teams from several universities, and even competitors from other countries. It is exciting to watch the skill and strength of the boatmen as they skim their 12.95-meter (42.5 ft.) boats across the waters to snatch the flag at the end of the course.
in addition to the races, there are demonstrations of folk arts and crafts, plenty of food and drink--including, of course, tsung tze! Come for a little while, or stay for the whole day; you will not be disappointed. Activities get under way around 10:00 a.m. Bring your lunch, a sun hat, sun screen and/or umbrella--and your camera.